Whittiker Cut

Posted by Johnny Buck on August 8th, 2007 filed in News

 

In training camp, a twist of fate is never more than a turned ankle away.

That’s what offensive lineman Will Whittiker learned Tuesday, when he was cut by the Washington Redskins.

Whittiker had impressed coaches over the offseason and initial week of training camp, filling in for injured guard Randy Thomas with the first-string offense. However, the third-year player from Michigan State suffered a high ankle sprain on Monday and was cut before Tuesday afternoon’s practice.

The 6-foot-5, 338-pound player, who was projected as an offensive tackle, had been expected to miss at least two weeks.

Head coach Joe Gibbs said injuries at other positions forced the Redskins to make a move, cutting a player they feel will eventually wind up catching on with another team.

The Redskins filled Whittiker’s roster spot with veteran running back Dee Brown. A member of the Kansas City Chiefs for the last two seasons, Brown enters camp with a solid understanding of Al Saunders’ offense already in hand.

Injuries to Clinton Portis (tendonitis - knee), Ladell Betts (neck sprain) and Derrick Blaylock (ankle sprain) mean the six-year pro could be on the field as soon as Saturday’s scrimmage with the Titans.